2Views
Barcelona’s Alejandro Balde has a hamstring injury and might miss big upcoming games, like in the Champions League and the Copa del Rey final.
WHAT HAPPENED?
Balde had to leave the field in the 41st minute during Barcelona’s 1-0 win over Leganés in La Liga due to discomfort. Tests on Sunday showed a distal injury to his right hamstring. The club said his return would depend on his recovery progress.
Balde is out for important games this month, including Tuesday’s Champions League quarter-final second leg with Borussia Dortmund and La Liga matches against Celta Vigo and Mallorca. He may miss the Copa del Rey final against Real Madrid on April 26, and may again missi an eventual Champions League semi final if he cannot recover in time.
THE BIGGER PICTURE
Balde has been crucial to Barcelona’s stellar season, appearing in 43 matches across all competitions with 10 assists and one goal. His speed, defensive strength, and attacking contributions have been essential under manager Hansi Flick as the team stays unbeaten in 24 matches across all competitions.
Barcelona tops La Liga with 70 points and has a seven-point lead over Real Madrid. Their 4-0 lead from the first leg against Borussia Dortmund makes them favorites to advance in the Champions League, but losing Balde at this stage adds pressure on the team. His likely replacement, Gerard Martín, has promise but lacks experience, with just 10 starts this season.
WHAT’S NEXT FOR BARCELONA?
With a tough schedule ahead, including the Champions League second leg against Dortmund on Tuesday, the Copa del Rey final, and critical La Liga matches, Barcelona must adapt quickly. Gerard Martín is expected to fill in at left-back, and the team hopes for Balde’s swift return. There is internal hope he might be back for early May matches, but no exact timeline is set.
As the season nears its climax, Barcelona must rely on their depth and determination to reach their goals in domestic and European competitions. Fans will closely watch updates on Balde’s condition in the coming weeks.
